Should I Hire a Car Accident Lawyer for a Minor Accident?
Consider hiring a car accident lawyer even after a minor accident where the damages or injuries are not significant. A qualified attorney can evaluate your case and represent your interests to an insurance company or court. Here are some considerations to help you decide whether to hire a personal injury lawyer or not:
Extent of the Injuries
Following a minor car accident, you or other passengers could have sustained injuries that don’t manifest until several days or weeks later. Health problems like whiplash, soft tissue injuries, and concussions could have a delayed onset. Minor accidents can also aggravate underlying medical issues like back, spine, or neck problems.
Minor injuries can result in hefty medical bills and impact your ability to walk, work, or perform routine chores. An attorney can help you secure compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages, and the interference of your quality of life caused by the injuries. After a minor accident, see a doctor immediately and maintain your health records, which can help build a strong case.
Severity of the Property Damage
A small fender bender or swipe could appear like a simple problem, but assessing the severity of vehicle damage and related expenses can be complex. An experienced lawyer can help you evaluate the compensation you should receive for the damage to your vehicle, including hidden structural damage. Determining the extent of vehicle damage can give you a fair settlement for repairs or replacement.
When assessing the extent of car damage, a personal injury lawyer considers the loss of use, total loss, and diminished value. Some insurance companies undervalue your property damage claim or attempt to deny it. A qualified attorney can negotiate with insurance adjusters to maximize your compensation so that all aspects of vehicle damage are addressed.
Present Liability Disputes
Accidents involving multiple vehicles or complex traffic situations can make it difficult to determine the at-fault driver. If there is a dispute regarding who was at fault for the accident, hiring a qualified lawyer can be a viable option. They can help review evidence, such as accident reports, photographs, traffic camera footage, and witness statements, to establish what happened.
If the case goes to court, a lawyer can request accident reconstruction experts to offer their opinion to determine liability. Your attorney can also advise you on what statements to make or not make to avoid admitting fault unintentionally. An attorney can also present legal arguments and cite relevant laws and precedents demonstrating that you were not at fault.
Difficulty Handling Your Claim
Handling insurance companies can be challenging when you are unsure about the terms and coverage limits of their policies. Your lawyer can review your insurance policy to help you understand the compensation and benefits. They can help you seek sufficient settlement for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
A knowledgeable attorney can assist you in filing the necessary insurance claims promptly and accurately. This approach allows you to meet deadlines and provide all required information to the insurance company. If the insurance company denies your claim or you are unsatisfied with the outcome, a lawyer can assist with the appeals process and provide legal representation.
Hire an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
After a minor car accident, hire a personal injury lawyer to help you get reimbursement to pay for medical bills and vehicle repair costs. You can also get compensation for non-economic damages like pain and suffering, and mental anguish. An attorney can review your case and the evidence and file a claim before the deadline. Attorneys are adept at preparing well-documented claims that provide a detailed account of the car accident and the damages.
